Utilization of type I collagen gel, demineralized bone matrix, and bone morphogenetic protein-2 to enhance autologous bone lumbar spinal fusion.

Autologous bone grafts are currently considered "gold standard" material for achieving long-term spinal arthrodesis. The present study was performed to determine whether demineralized bone matrix (DBM), type I collagen gels, or bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) can improve autologous bone spinal fusions. Using a unilateral decompression-contralateral fusion technique in dogs, each of these materials was added to an autologous bone graft. Volumetric analysis, histological analysis, and biomechanical testing were performed to assess the effectiveness of each material. The DBM had an inhibitory effect on solid bone fusion of the spine, whereas the type I collagen gels improved the bony interface between the graft and the host spine. The BMP-2 strongly enhanced the amount of bone deposition at the fusion site and increased the number of intervertebral levels that were solidly fused. This study strongly supports the use of BMP-2 as an additive to autologous bone grafts in spine stabilization.